The Meaning Behind The Song: What’s My Name by Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, also known as Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is an American rapper, singer, and actor. He is widely considered to be one of the pioneers of West Coast hip hop and gangsta rap. One of his most popular and iconic songs is “What’s My Name,” which was released as the lead single from his debut album, Doggystyle, in 1993. The song features a funky and infectious beat, along with Snoop Dogg’s smooth and distinctive flow, but what is the meaning behind the lyrics?
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
Before delving into the meaning behind “What’s My Name,” let’s take a look at some of the key lyrics of the song:
“Murder was the case that they gave me
Westside represent till I die
In the city of good ol’ Watts
In the city of L.A.”
These lyrics paint a picture of Snoop Dogg’s gangster lifestyle and his loyalty to his home on the Westside of Los Angeles. However, the most memorable and catchy part of the song is the chorus:
“Snoop Doggy, Dogg (yeah yeah)
Snoop Doggy, Dogg (the bomb)
Da-da-da-da-dahhh
Do-do-do-do, doo-doo-doo-doo”
This repetitive and catchy chorus has become an anthem for Snoop Dogg’s fans and is arguably one of the most recognizable hooks in hip hop history. But what does it mean?
The Meaning
While the lyrics of “What’s My Name” may not have a deep or profound meaning, the song itself is a representation of the rising popularity and influence of West Coast hip hop in the early 90s. Snoop Dogg’s laidback and casual flow, along with Dr. Dre’s innovative production, helped to establish a new sound and style that would dominate the genre for years to come.
Many of the lyrics in the song are references to Snoop Dogg’s gangster lifestyle and his experiences growing up in Los Angeles. The line “Murder was the case that they gave me” is a reference to his real-life murder trial in 1993, which he was eventually acquitted of. The lyrics “In the city of good ol’ Watts, in the city of L.A.” are a nod to two neighborhoods in Los Angeles where Snoop Dogg spent a lot of his time.
Overall, “What’s My Name” is a classic hip hop track that showcases Snoop Dogg’s effortless flow and Dr. Dre’s innovative production. While the lyrics may not be particularly complex or deep, the song itself has left an indelible mark on the genre and continues to be a fan favorite to this day.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Who produced “What’s My Name?”
“What’s My Name” was produced by Dr. Dre, who is widely considered to be one of the most influential and innovative producers in hip hop history. Dre is also a rapper and entrepreneur, who has helped to shape the sound and style of West Coast hip hop over the years.
2. What album is “What’s My Name” on?
“What’s My Name” is the lead single from Snoop Dogg’s debut album, Doggystyle. The album was released in 1993 and is widely considered to be a classic of the genre, featuring some of Snoop Dogg’s most iconic tracks.
3. What does the chorus of “What’s My Name” mean?
The chorus of “What’s My Name” is simply a repetition of the lines “Snoop Doggy, Dogg (yeah yeah) / Snoop Doggy, Dogg (the bomb) / Da-da-da-da-dahhh / Do-do-do-do, doo-doo-doo-doo.” While the lyrics may not have a particular meaning, the catchy and infectious melody has become synonymous with Snoop Dogg and his unique style.
4. What is the meaning behind the lyrics “Murder was the case that they gave me”?
The lyrics “Murder was the case that they gave me” are a reference to Snoop Dogg’s real-life murder trial in 1993, which he was eventually acquitted of. The line is meant to convey Snoop’s defiance in the face of adversity and his refusal to let legal troubles hold him back.
5. What is the significance of the line “Westside represent till I die”?
The line “Westside represent till I die” is a nod to Snoop Dogg’s loyalty to his home on the Westside of Los Angeles. It is also a reflection of the rising popularity and influence of West Coast hip hop in the early 90s, which was characterized by its unique sound, style, and attitude.
6. What other songs are on the Doggystyle album?
Doggystyle features a number of classic tracks, including “Gin and Juice,” “Tha Shiznit,” “Murder Was the Case,” and “Lodi Dodi.” The album is widely considered to be a landmark of West Coast hip hop and one of the most important and influential albums of the genre.
7. What inspired Snoop Dogg to become a rapper?
Snoop Dogg has cited a number of influences over the years, including the music of funk legends like George Clinton and Sly Stone, as well as the pioneering hip hop of artists like Kool Moe Dee and Ice-T. Snoop was also heavily influenced by the gangster lifestyle of the streets of Los Angeles, which he grew up in.
8. Has Snoop Dogg collaborated with other artists?
Yes, Snoop Dogg has collaborated with a wide variety of artists over the years, including Dr. Dre, Tupac Shakur, Pharrell Williams, and Katy Perry. Snoop is known for his smooth and laidback flow, which blends well with a variety of different musical styles and genres.
9. What is Snoop Dogg’s real name?
Snoop Dogg’s real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. He was born on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California.
10. How has Snoop Dogg’s music evolved over the years?
Snoop Dogg’s music has evolved significantly over the years, as he has experimented with a wide variety of different sounds and styles. In the early 90s, he was known for his smooth and laidback flow, as well as his gangster lyrics and West Coast sound. In more recent years, he has experimented with funk, reggae, and even gospel-inspired sounds.
11. What is Snoop Dogg’s net worth?
As of 2021, Snoop Dogg’s net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. He has amassed this fortune through his music career, business ventures, and television appearances.
12. What business ventures has Snoop Dogg been involved in?
Snoop Dogg has been involved in a wide range of business ventures over the years, including a record label (Doggy Style Records), a football league (Snoop Youth Football League), and a cannabis brand (Leafs by Snoop). He has also appeared in numerous films and television shows, including Training Day, Swat, and Starsky & Hutch.
